A8 Oil Pressure Crisis: Engine Knocking Raises Red Flags

Having some experience with similar issues, I can share what happened with my 2020 Audi A6 Hybrid. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I encountered, the oil pressure gauge warning, followed by those worrying engine knocks. After monitoring the engine oil level and finding it normal, I took it to a workshop where they diagnosed a defective oil pump. The oil pressure was dropping intermittently, causing insufficient lubrication. The repair involved replacing the oil pump assembly, which ended up costing 755 Euro including parts and labor. Important warning: This issue needs immediate attention. Low oil pressure can cause severe engine damage if not addressed quickly. Those knocking sounds often indicate the bearings are already being affected by insufficient lubrication. To help provide more specific advice, could you share: Current mileage on your A8, Whether the warning light is constant or intermittent, If the knocking sound varies with engine speed, Any error codes from diagnostic scans The oil filter could potentially be clogged, but given the symptoms and your recent oil change, the oil pump is more likely the culprit. I would strongly recommend having it checked by an authorized workshop as soon as possible to prevent potential engine damage.

Thanks for the responses. Just to update, after checking the error codes with my OBD scanner, it shows P0522. The knocking sound definitely changes with engine speed and becomes more noticeable during acceleration. Latest oil change was at 158344 KM, using the manufacturer recommended oil viscosity. Hoping this info helps pinpoint the issue before any serious engine bearings damage occurs.

Thanks for the additional details. When I had this exact issue with my A6, the P0522 code also appeared, which confirmed the oil pressure sensor circuit low voltage, matching what I suspected about the oil pump problem. The varying knock sound with RPM is crucial information. In my case, this symptom combined with the oil pressure warning was indeed linked to failing engine bearings, caused by the faulty oil pump not maintaining proper oil pressure. The repair ended up being more extensive than initially planned. After my experience, here are key points to consider: The P0522 code sometimes indicates a faulty oil pressure sensor, but with the knocking sounds, its likely indicating a real oil pressure issue, Low oil pressure combined with bearing noise typically means engine bearing wear has started, The oil filter might be clogged, but given your recent oil change, this is less likely Would strongly advise against driving the vehicle until its properly diagnosed. My repair bill escalated to 2800 Euro because I waited too long, leading to more extensive engine bearing damage. Has the oil pressure warning remained constant since your last update?

Thanks everyone for the detailed feedback. I wanted to give a final update on my situation. After your comments about low oil pressure potentially damaging engine bearings, I decided not to risk further damage and had the car towed to the workshop yesterday. The mechanic confirmed the oil pressure sensor was actually working correctly, the problem was indeed a failing oil pump causing inconsistent oil pressure throughout the engine. They also found early signs of wear on some engine bearings, but thankfully caught it before catastrophic damage occurred. The oil viscosity was correct, but the low pressure from the faulty pump meant it wasnt being distributed properly. Total repair came to 1450 Euro including the new oil pump, gaskets, and labor. Much better than risking complete engine failure. For anyone searching with similar symptoms, that combination of oil pressure warnings and knocking noises definitely requires immediate attention. Really glad I didnt try driving it further.